True Winning

Life is not a race.

There is no prize for getting anywhere before another—

to any of the places you’ve deemed worthy of your attention.

Rather, it is the collecting of the energy from each place where you are

that propels you to the next… and the next.

Imagine enjoying all the steps on the way,

being fully present in each—

as if your footfalls are kisses on the earth,

and the very ground you walk on delights in your presence.

The birds follow your beaming.

The trees anticipate your arrival like a welcomed guest,

offering shade when wanted, and support for rest or communion.

Isn’t that better than always seeking to be where you are not?

Like the parable of the tortoise and the hare—

the tortoise didn’t delay because he couldn’t move faster.

He took his time

to notice where he was,

to enjoy each view,

rather than obsess over winning,

or striving to be somewhere else.

And yet,

he ended up winning anyway.

Whether you cross the line first, last, or in the middle,

the joy in each stroke, each step, each moment—

the noticing of what’s around you,

rather than just what’s occupying your headspace—

that is the joy of the journey.

That is winning at life.

That is winning the great race of all time.

It is the expansion of vibrational energy,

a gift of true achievement—

and a blessing

to the observers in this game of life.

True winning.